Finding a Reception Venue on a Budget

Finding a great reception venue on a budget can be challenging, but not impossible. Your options will depend primarily on the season, level of formality, and style of your vow renewal.  Make sure when figuring the cost of the venue, you take into account whether tables, chairs, and basic white linens are included or if you will need to rent them. You will also want to factor in requirements for catering, bar service, service staff, cleaning charges, and hours of availability versus being able to do self-catering, bring in your own alcohol, and use friends and family to service the event.  There can be substantial additional costs involved based on these requirements.

If you’re planning a late spring, summer, or early fall vow renewal, possible outdoor budget venues include city parks and gardens, state parks, or a large backyard or barn belonging to you or a friend or family member. You can also check with local bed and breakfasts to see if they will let you use their yard for a reasonable cost if you spend the night there.

If you want an indoor venue, check with smaller hotels that have meeting or banquet rooms, Legion halls, senior citizens centers, and community recreation centers. If you live in an apartment or condominium, check into renting the clubhouse or recreation building. If you belong to a house of worship, you might consider having both your ceremony and reception there.

If you are needing a larger venue or want something a bit grander, consider having your vow renewal in the off season for weddings when better hotel ballrooms, orchards, vineyards, and other specialty venues are available at better rates.

Remember, the more flexible and creative you are with your vow renewal ideas and date, the better your chances are of find the perfect place at a rate that fits your budget!